Health impact of tobacco use on young people

Tobacco use affects young people’s physical fitness. Young people who use tobacco have reduced lung function and are more likely to suffer from respiratory problems. Smoking at an early age increases the risk of lung cancer and as young people continue smoking into adulthood the risk of other cancers, heart disease and stroke increases.

Children are especially vulnerable to the harm of second-hand smoke. They have smaller lungs and absorb more tobacco smoke toxins. This makes them susceptible to many conditions, such as respiratory infections, asthma and ear infections. They are also less able to complain or remove themselves from exposure, especially at home.

Many young people are exposed to second-hand smoke in their homes and public places, including educational facilities. In the Region, 38% of 13–15 year olds live in a home where others smoke, and 46% are exposed to second-hand smoke in public places. This poses great risks for young peoples’ health and for their future well-being.

Further harms to young people from tobacco

Tobacco use by adults means that many households have reduced resources to spend on the food, health care, clothing and educational needs of their children. This can have a serious impact on their health, physical development and future employment opportunities.

Many young people from poor families are employed in the tobacco industry exposing them to the harms associated with nicotine poisoning and exposure to highly dangerous agrochemicals used in tobacco cultivation. It is hazardous work that impedes their rights to health, social development and education.